16 best running shoes

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

Running is the most accessible and understandable sport, however, to achieve the best results, it is not enough to accurately execute the technique, it is also important to choose comfortable and correct sneakers, because they determine the degree of comfort when setting the foot and taking steps. The shoe features a special construction of the last with ankle support and heel fixation, the outsole with a complex tread compensates for the increased loads during movement and relieves pressure on the feet. Sneakers differ in several ways:

1. According to the specifics of the application – for short distances, for cross-country, universal;
2. Male and female.

The portal's experts offer a rating of the best running shoes according to athletes and podiatrists.

Ranking of the best running shoes

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
The best women's running shoes	1	ASICS GEL-PULSE 9	6 490
	2	Nike WMNS NIKE QUEST	5 290
	3	Salomon SPEEDCROSS 4 W	7 000
	4	Under Armor UA W HOVR Phantom NC	11 990
	5	ASICS PATRIOT 10	3 990
	6	PUMA CometLM039853413	3 390
	7	Reebok REEBOK PRINT RUN NEXT	5 430
The best men's running shoes	1	ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 20	11 490
	2	Under Armor UA Dash RN 2	2 740
	3	New Balance 860v8	11 990
	4	Salomon XA ELEVATE	6 650
	5	Nike FLEX EXPERIENCE RN 7	4 690
	6	ASICS GEL-SONOMA 3	5 990
The best professional running shoes	1	Adidas Energy Boost ESM	7 690
	2	Asics GEL-DS TRAINER 20 NC	8 990
The best running shoes for long-distance cross-country running	1	Salomon SPEEDCROSS VARIO 2 GTX ®	6000

The best women's running shoes

Sneakers for the fair sex should be not only comfortable and practical, but also stylish, because even on a treadmill a woman wants to look attractive. In the category, we presented shoes for female athletes, runners at different distances.

ASICS GEL-PULSE 9

Rating: 4.9

The leader of the ASICS rating is the GEL-PULSE 9 model, the shoes are suitable for both men and women – their design is neutral, and the colors of the solutions are wide. These sneakers have a high level of sales in Europe among professional athletes and amateurs, in Russia they are supplied to the Athletics and Triathlon Federation, as well as to 10 other countries around the globe. At many world relay races and championships, athletes wear ASICS GEL-PULSE 9 sneakers. The shoes are good for their special structure: the multi-layer sole has a gel cushioning layer that redistributes the load on the foot at every moment of its position and weight distribution. Thus, the joints of the legs from the ankle to the knee and thigh are unloaded, the power costs for movement are somewhat less.

The textile from which the last is sewn allows air and moisture to pass through, the foot does not sweat even over long distances. At the same time, the heel counter reliably fixes the heel, without allowing the foot to accidentally tuck, does not injure the skin – a fabric edging is made around the ankle. The sneakers are lightweight, hardly felt on the leg during running, their durability is high – like new even after a year. The only drawback is the inconsistency with the standard dimensional grid according to Russian standards; when buying, you need to choose shoes 1-1.5 sizes larger.

The cost of a pair of ASICS GEL-PULSE 9 sneakers is from 4,200 rubles.

Advantages

• Stabilizing last and gel-lined outsole;
• Breathable last and padded ankle piping
• Lightweight sneakers;
• With the right choice of size, they sit like twisted;
• Foot support.

disadvantages

• The size grid does not correspond to the Russian one by 1-1.5 positions.

Nike WMNS NIKE QUEST

Rating: 4.8

In second place in the ranking are sneakers from the legendary Nike brand WMNS NIKE QUEST. They are distinguished by a multi-layer sole with separate blocks: stabilizers under the outer arch of the foot, under the heel, anti-slip protector. The last is soft, made of moisture and air permeable material, fixation on the leg by means of unusual lacing.

The Nike WMNS NIKE QUEST sneakers are equally comfortable to run short and long distances, as well as to use them in everyday life, combined with jeans or a skirt. The model range includes 5 color options and color combinations for the last and sole, on black and gray sneakers, lace loops are brightly colored. The size grid corresponds to the generally accepted one, so you can safely order shoes in online stores, where the price for a pair starts from 5,200 rubles.

Important: in order not to buy an expensive fake of the original Nike WMNS NIKE QUEST sneakers, compare the numbers of the product code – they must match the number on the back of the tongue.

Advantages

• Lightweight sneakers – 240 gr. every;
• Suitable for running at different distances;
• Stabilizing outsole;
• Breathable material;
• Correspondence of sizes.

disadvantages

• The market is overflowing with fakes of these sneakers.

Salomon SPEEDCROSS 4 W

Rating: 4.8

While the previously presented sneaker models were designed for running on flat asphalt, the Salomon SPEEDCROSS 4 W is designed for running on the ground and rough terrain. У них рифлёный шипованный протектор на подошве от пятки до носка (Contagrip® Mud&Snow), колодка устойчивая с поддержкой стопы и стабилизацией для удобного преодоления препятствий по мягкому и мокрому грунту без травм, материал обшивки дышащий, пропускающий воздух, вес обуви малый, почти незаметный.

A feature of Salomon SPEEDCROSS 4 W sneakers is resistance to dirt, the material of the casing repels water and wet soil, the soil also does not linger in the sole projector. The ergonomics are also good: the shoe fits snugly to the foot like a glove, there are no chafing zones, and a pocket is provided for the laces on the tongue.

You can buy legendary sneakers for women Salomon SPEEDCROSS 4 W from 6 100 rubles.

Advantages

• Ergonomic fit of the sneaker on the feet;
• Ideal for trail running and trail running;
• Dirt and water protection system;
• Lightweight EVA and plastic outsole with pronounced tread;
• Bright colors.

disadvantages

• Not suitable for asphalt pavement at all.

Under Armor UA W HOVR Phantom NC

Rating: 4.8

Running classic sneakers are made of knitted textiles with an unusual relief, which dries quickly after getting wet from rain water, it perfectly permeates moisture from sweat to the outside so that the foot is always dry and comfortable. The fit of the shoe is compression, while nothing presses and does not cause discomfort, the toe is tight. The back of the last is tight, supports the heel and fixes it, protecting the foot from dislocation during movement.

A feature of the Under Armor UA W HOVR Phantom NC sneakers for women is the realized UA HOVR ™ outsole technology. It assumes the return of energy (Energy Web system) when taking a step by reducing the load on the leg, so the runner gets less tired and the workout can last much longer. The outsole is made of a special dense foam, in combination with the tread, which gives excellent cushioning and perfect grip on asphalt, rubberized coating, it is comfortable to run in sneakers even on off-road. They can be combined with both a sporty look and a casual outfit.

You can buy Under Armor UA W HOVR Phantom NC from 11,000 rubles.

Advantages

• The dimensional grid corresponds to the generally accepted;
• Perfect grip on asphalt, rubberized surfaces, grass;
• Suitable for running short and long distances;
• Energy recovery cushioning outsole
• The foot does not sweat – the Chamois material absorbs moisture, the rest comes out through the textile;
• Reinforced heel and toe.

disadvantages

• High price;
• One sneaker is heavy – it weighs 300.5 grams;
• Dust gets in through the woven top when running on the ground.

ASICS PATRIOT 10

Rating: 4.7

Sneakers from ASICS model PATRIOT 10 are suitable for daily runs on short distances on an even surface: they are light, and the textile is breathable, the insole material does not allow the foot to sweat and overheat.

The ASICS PATRIOT 10 sneaker fits perfectly on the foot, the flexible sole does not restrict the movement of the foot and does not require any effort to bend, ideal for sprinters. The insole made of absorbent thermoregulatory material is removable, easy to care for, and, if necessary, can be replaced with an orthopedic or any other. The appearance of the sneaker is complete and elegant, the shoe is suitable for urban life and everyday wear.

It is noteworthy: ASICS PATRIOT 10 sneakers are quite affordable – you can buy them for 3,990 rubles.

Advantages

• Affordable price;
• Internal thermoregulation;
• Breathable textile and absorbent insole;
• Flexible, cushioned outsole for running and walking on level asphalt.

disadvantages

• Uncomfortable for long distances;
• Not suitable for trail running, not versatile.

PUMA CometLM039853413

Rating: 4.7

The PUMA CometLM039853413 is a low-top sneaker for men and women that is incredibly comfortable, judging by the reviews of professional and amateur athletes. Made with the needs of flat runners in mind: the textiles are breathable, letting in steam without letting the foot sweat, and the elastic and lightweight outsole with the embossed Flex tread provides a comfortable step when running effortlessly with perfect cushioning, which is also facilitated by the Softfoam insole.

Sneakers are ideal for running in warm weather proudly on a flat road – on the ground the sole transfers bumps to the foot, which is not very comfortable. The cost of a pair of PUMA CometLM039853413 is affordable – about 3,300 rubles.

Advantages

• Lightweight sneakers;
• Breathable textiles;
• Reliable grip;
• Solid reinforced heel and rubberized toe.

disadvantages

• Sneakers are uncomfortable for running on the ground and uneven surfaces;
• Leather inserts wear out quickly on contact with a hard surface.

Reebok REEBOK PRINT RUN NEXT

Rating: 4.6

Ranked 7th is the lightweight and ergonomic Reebok Print Run Next, featuring a breathable upper with elastic Flexweave inserts for flexibility and crease-free flexion. The shoes are ideal for running at maximum acceleration – the step is light, the leg gets less tired, the training effect is increased.

The sole of the sneaker is multi-layered, the intermediate cushion made of foam and elastic material of a complex structure provides ideal adaptive cushioning, which additionally relieves stress from the athlete's feet. A dense, elasticated finish around the perimeter ensures the shoe's integrity even under heavy loads, keeps the foot secure and safe on maneuvers, and extends the shoe's lifespan. Seamless '8' weave fabric is elastic and does not hold down the leg in a snug fit.

The Reebok REEBOK PRINT RUN NEXT is suitable for long and short distances on asphalt, the exterior is versatile for men and women, and the sizes correspond to the standard grid. The cost of a pair is relatively low – about 3,900 rubles.

Advantages

• Lightweight sneakers;
• Flexible inserts to facilitate foot flexion;
• Shock absorbing layer in the sole;
• Carbon rubber-reinforced upper;
• Suitable for training in different modes on an even surface.

disadvantages

• In wet weather they get very wet;
• They grind half a size.

The best men's running shoes

The shoe for men running has a special last design that adapts to the movement of the foot on short and long distances. They should be cushioned, relieve tension from the leg if necessary, and be comfortable. The best models of the market are presented in our rating.

ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 20

Rating: 4.9

The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 20 neutral-pronation sneaker was recognized as the best, adapting to the shape of the athlete's foot with a snug textile upper and an elastic sole with a gel filling, which provides perfect cushioning of each part of the foot at all stages of training, regardless of the nature of movement. The FluidRide midsole technology also provides lightweight and stress-relieving running.

The upper part of the sneaker made of seamless textile fits snugly to the foot and does not let it sweat, letting steam out, at the same time supports the foot during movement.

The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 20 is suitable for long and short distance runs primarily on flat asphalt surfaces. Shoes in parallel help to increase the strength of the calf muscles – their weight in a pair is all 610 grams, and the leg, when pushed off from the coating, does not 'bounce', but falls into the gel pillow, which requires additional efforts from the athlete, but this disadvantage is compensated by the correct choice of movement technique .

You can buy ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 20 sneakers from 8 600 rubles.

Advantages

• Perfect adaptation to the leg;
• For short and long distances;
• X-40 Comfort Dry insole with antibacterial coating;
• Adaptive depreciation;
• Versatile design for sports and daily life.

disadvantages

• Without the selection of technique, running may not seem as 'springy' as we would like;
• Some athletes note a slight discrepancy in size, you need to measure it before buying.

Under Armor UA Dash RN 2

Rating: 4.8

In second place are Under Armor UA Dash RN 2 lightweight sneakers with a classic exterior, made of genuine leather along the perimeter and inserts made of breathable textiles. This combination of materials provides the shoe with durability and strength, as well as the ability to use in the summer and off-season. Support for the foot and a snug fit is possible, in particular, thanks to the soft tongue with an adaptive inner lining, and the outsole made of lightweight EVA material with a rubber coating does not weigh down the step and perfectly absorbs every movement on a flat and dirt road.

You can buy a pair of Under Armor UA Dash RN 2 sneakers from 2,700 rubles.

Advantages

• Suitable for short and long distances;
• Versatility: for sports and everyday wear;
• Excellent wear resistance;
• Lightweight shoes;
• Affordable price.

disadvantages

• Some discrepancies in sizes at 0.5 positions were noted.

New Balance 860v8

Rating: 4.8

Third place was taken by the New Balance 860v8, an expressive exterior and brightly colored sneakers, ideal for athletes with an overpronation of the foot, that is, with an inward-turning outer surface with an outward-facing sole. The insole and midsole featuring ABZORB® and ACTEVA technologies with unique geometry compensates for this feature by softening the cushioning step and providing enhanced support for the foot when running and walking, and responsiveness over long distances. The T-beam technology protects the shoe from twisting, while increasing stability during movement.

Rubber outsole around the perimeter and forefoot extends the shoe's durability and makes it resilient to maneuver. You can buy New Balance 860v8 from 11,990 rubles.

Advantages

• Enhanced foot support with hyperpronation;
• Suitable for jogging at different distances;
• Breathable, breathable upper
• Multi-layer cushioning sole;
• Protection against twisting and twisting of the legs when running.

disadvantages

• High price.

Salomon XA ELEVATE

Rating: 4.7

The Salomon XA ELEVATE sneakers are created from a combination of different materials: the top is breathable mesh textile that allows moisture to pass through and ensures a snug fit of the shoe to the foot, rubberized stripes of the same material and color enhance the strength of the sneaker around the perimeter and increase moisture resistance when running on wet asphalt or grass, Rigid heel counter supports the heel while walking and running.

Multilayer rubber outsole with Profeel Film lining and embossed tread absorbs the pressure from stones when running on rough terrain and ground, while providing perfect grip with it, preventing the foot from slipping. The sole bends in the transverse direction easily, that is, the foot does not need a lot of effort to roll during a step, but it is difficult to bend longitudinally out of it, the Advanced Chassis stabilization system works, which protects against twisting. Ideal for off-the-beaten track runs, it also performs well on tarmac.

The last of the Salomon XA ELEVATE sneakers is designed for a medium foot width, adjustable with laces that are almost invisible and does not create pressure.

To purchase a pair of sneakers, you will have to pay from 7,100 rubles.

Advantages

• Suitable for trail running, mountainous terrain and asphalt;
• Rubberized bottom of the textile part;
• Anti-twist protection;
• Reinforced outsole to compensate for uneven terrain;
• Breathable upper material (wear-resistant mesh).

disadvantages

• With such endurance, the sides of the shoe want to overestimate a little for greater convenience.

Nike FLEX EXPERIENCE RN 7

Rating: 4.6

Fifth place is given to sneakers for men from the well-known Nike brand, the FLEX EXPERIENCE RN 7 model, which fit perfectly on the foot and are practically not felt when running on flat surfaces and ground. The upper is a breathable melange material, compacted in the heel area, soft at the toe, the sole is a foam polymer with a projector in the form of hexagonal grooves, provides flexibility when rolling the foot, relieving stress from it in parallel, the rounded heel part also contributes to this. The weight of one shoe is 256 grams – optimal for training professional athletes and amateurs.

The Nike FLEX EXPERIENCE RN 7 pair starts at RUB 4,690.

Advantages

• Ergonomic design for classics;
• Powerful stabilization and shock absorption;
• Breathable materials;
• Comfortable last with heel support.

disadvantages

• Small in size, must be taken into account when ordering in the online store.

ASICS GEL-SONOMA 3

Rating: 4.6

Rounding out the ranking in the men's running shoe category is the familiar ASICS brand GEL-SONOMA 3 with a gel stabilizer inside a multi-layer sole for long-term training on mountainous and rough terrain. A thick outsole made of durable foam with a pronounced powerful tread that provides traction on any type of surface, including loose soil, dampens uneven terrain. A rubber lug above the heel is provided for a comfortable descent. The textile upper is wear-resistant, contributes to a perfectly snug fit on a medium-width leg, the ankle is fixed securely, but over time, the place of coverage wears out, which can cause discomfort.

The toe, like the heel, is multi-layered, they provide fixation of the foot, which is especially important when running on the mountains, the Ortholite orthopedic insole provides additional comfort and correct foot placement.

The price of ASICS GEL-SONOMA 3 sneakers starts at 3,600 rubles for special offers, the usual price is about 5,200 rubles.

Advantages

• Comfortable running shoe for off-road and mountainous terrain;
• Wear-resistant sewing materials;
• Powerful foot support and leg lock between heel and heel;
• Ergonomic fit.

disadvantages

• Not defined.

The best professional running shoes

The sneaker for professional runners differs from the amateur in the high degree of foot support and cushioning necessary for a comfortable foot movement during short and long distances.

Adidas Energy Boost ESM

Rating: 4.9

Athletes hold the Adidas Energy Boost ESM professional running shoe with an updated layer of TPU granules inside the Boost sole that compensates for unevenness of any type of road surface and soil. The technology of cushioning by means of balls is also useful for another property – the conservation of energy and its transfer to the leg, that is, when moving, the efforts are reduced and there are more forces for running. However, the Dual Torsion TPM outsole is not as flexible as we would like it to be – this is Adidas' desire to make the shoe more perfect and more durable.

Upper – Stretch mesh in all directions, widened at the toe for forefoot freedom. It does not allow air to pass through well enough, so the leg heats up in the heat, but does not sweat – this task was solved with dignity. The heel counter is stiff, but due to the weak flexibility of the sole, it feels rough.

The Adidas Energy Boost ESM is a sneaker for serious running, but looks good in a casual look – aesthetic and versatile. You can buy a pair in male and female versions for 7,600 rubles.

Advantages

• Reinforced heel and toe;
• Foot support and anti-twist protection;
• Boost cushioning technology for running on flat road and ground;
• Available in male and female versions.

disadvantages

• If the sole is not flexible enough, it seems stiff at first;
• In hot weather, the inner space heats up with the leg.

Asics GEL-DS TRAINER 20 NC

Rating: 4.8

The experts identified the second place in the rating as the Asics GEL-DS TRAINER 20 NC sneakers for professionals with a system of distribution of incoming shocks and uneven surfaces. The outsole made of wear-resistant AHAR + rubber with ASICS silicone layer allows you to run with comfort, it reduces the load from the joints of the athlete's legs, absorbs as much as possible, and the tread on the lower layer of AHAR rubber creates grip on any road surface, including wet ones.

The California-type last is shock-resistant, with an exoskeleton heel counter that locks the heel into place, preventing twisting and dislocation. The outer material is breathable textile with reflective inserts, the inside is an absorbent ComforDry insole that can be taken out, washed or replaced as needed.

The cost of running shoes Asics GEL-DS TRAINER 20 NC from 6 150 rubles.

Advantages

• Double-layer outsole with silicone compensator;
• Breathable sheathing textiles;
• Heel fixation in the heel counter;
• Suitable for running on asphalt and dirt.

disadvantages

• Small size;
• Less sturdy and abrasion resistant compared to Adidas Energy Boost ESM.

The best running shoes for long-distance cross-country running

When running long distances and long training sessions, proper distribution of the load on the leg, compensation for uneven ground and comfort are necessary. The ideal running shoes for a marathon are the only ones in our ranking, but they are preferred by runners in different countries, shoes can often be found at competitions and international relay races.

Salomon SPEEDCROSS VARIO 2 GTX®

Rating: 4.9

The aggressive design and character of the Salomon SPEEDCROSS VARIO 2 GTX® perform equally well on flat roads and rough terrain: the lightweight Wet Traction Contagrip outsole with deep tread provides traction on hard and soft, dry and wet ground, while giving good rebound for due to the lack of internal compensation pillows. The 11mm front / rear drop is ideal for athletes of all skill levels, running with a variety of techniques.

The pad is reinforced around the perimeter is not afraid of blows and protects against dislocation, twisting, the textile top allows moisture to pass outside and creates thermoregulation inside. The tongue protects the interior from pebbles and dust when driving outside the asphalt, and also additionally secures the foot in the shoe. The ankle girth is tight, does not cause discomfort, and the insole is designed for athletes with a neutral foot curve.

The Salomon SPEEDCROSS VARIO 2 GTX® running shoe is ideal for long walks and jogging on off-road and ground, providing all-round support for the foot while moving, they are practically free of flaws. The cost of a pair is about 7,990 rubles.

Advantages

• Deep tread for off-road driving;
• Tight ankle coverage and fit on the foot;
• Protection against the penetration of dust and stones;
• Comfortable 11 mm heel-to-toe slope;
• Resilient outsole with reinforced cushioning
• Dynamic design in a variety of colors.

disadvantages

• The model will not fit on a full and wide leg.

---

Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.